Description
Experience the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory with these Crispy Hot Honey Salmon Tenders. Coated in a crunchy panko-Parmesan crust and drizzled with a fiery honey glaze, these salmon strips are baked or air fried to golden perfection, making them a delightful main course that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon Tenders
- 1 pound skinless salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch wide strips
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray or drizzle (for baking or air frying)
Hot Honey Sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Cooking Equipment: Preheat your oven to 425°F or your air fryer to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for the oven method, or lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
- Set Up Dredging Station: Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat Salmon Tenders: Dredge each salmon strip first in flour, shaking off any excess; then dip into the beaten eggs; finally coat thoroughly with the panko-Parmesan mixture to ensure a crispy outer layer.
- Arrange Salmon for Cooking: Place the coated salmon tenders on the prepared baking sheet or in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring pieces do not touch to allow even crisping. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the tenders for a golden finish.
- Cook Salmon: Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes or air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time. Cook until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside while cooked through inside.
- Prepare Hot Honey Sauce: While salmon cooks, warm the honey gently in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in hot sauce and red pepper flakes, adjusting spice level to your preference.
- Serve: Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the cooked salmon tenders just before serving, or offer it on the side as a flavorful dip. Enjoy with your favorite sides such as ranch, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, substitute some of the panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes.
- Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of hot sauce or by omitting the red pepper flakes.
- These tender salmon pieces pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, slaw, or served over a bed of greens to balance the flavors.
